Yosemite Region

Is Yosemite dog-friendly?" That's one of the questions most commonly asked by DogTrekker readers. The answer depends on how "Yosemite" is defined. The famous national park comes immediately to mind, but the rugged Sierra Nevada landscapes that define it don't suddenly end at its borders.

The Yosemite Region, encompassing the three counties (Mariposa, Tuolumne and Madera) that converge in the park, harbors many other places to see and things to do—and it's definitely dog-friendly!

As the southern entrance to Yosemite, Madera County has dog-friendly hotels, wineries and restaurants, and dog-friendly outdoor activities including hiking and biking.

Tuolumne County is a mecca for outdoor adventure that you and your pup can enjoy together. Hiking, biking, fishing, river rafting, camping, gold panning, skiing and sightseeing are all on the list.

Mariposa County includes a range of landscapes and a heritage of historic sites and towns. Stunning scenery, outdoor attractions and rich history make for one of California’s most popular year-round vacation destinations for you and your four-legged companion.

One of our greatest national treasures,Yosemite National Park is surrounded by dog-friendly destinations, often called the "gateway" counties.

Yosemite National Park is open, including the valley, Highway 41 through Madera County, Fish Camp, Mariposa Grove and Glacier Point. The weather is cooling off for crisp fall evenings, and Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite, just minutes from the newly re-opened Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, has tons of great fall activities to get you and your favorite four-legged friend outside. more »

Fall is a great time for a scenic drive, and California’s National Scenic Byways and Scenic Highways provide guaranteed enjoyment for the eyes plus limitless opportunities for hiking with your dog in gorgeous country. Study maps and guides before you go—and, as wildfire season continues, be sure to check out air quality predictions, as well. Here are three scenic routes that are sure to rearrange your senses and set tails a-waggin'. more »

The Ferguson fire in Yosemite National Park that shut off the scenic Yosemite Valley for three weeks was fully contained on Aug. 19, and all entry roads through Tuolumne County (Highway 120), Mariposa County (Highway 140) and Madera County (Highway 41) are now open. Early fall is a great time to visit this iconic California attraction—and yes, there’s plenty for you and your dog to do together. #yosemitenow more »

The Eastern Sierra is often referred to as “California’s Switzerland” for its jagged peaks and high-altitude attractions. The options for dog-friendly hikes in the region are limitless, but if you want to top off some exercise with a hearty meal, we have a couple of suggestions. Little Lakes Valley Trail in Little Lakes Valley between Mammoth Lakes and Bishop is family-friendly as well as dog-friendly (leashes required). It’s also very popular, and for the best of reasons. more »

The chug-chug and urgent whistle call of an approaching train is always exciting, especially when a vintage steam engine leads the charge. How can you hear it and see it and not want to be on it? Several family-friendly excursion trains in California welcome dogs as well as parents, grandparents and youngsters aboard. Here’s a rundown. more »